This Summer's Heat Waves Inspired a Transformative 'Coolcation' in Norway

Rethinking Vacation Choices Amid Rising Heat

This summer, Megan Carnegie found herself trapped in a record heat wave in London. The temperatures soared to an uncomfortable 95°F in June, prompting her to rethink her traditional summer vacation plans. Instead of heading to warmer Mediterranean locales in search of sunshine, she made an unexpected decision: she booked her first 'coolcation' in Trondheim, Norway, where the average temperature was a refreshing 66°F.

Carnegie's experience in Trondheim turned out to be transformative, altering her concept of a perfect summer getaway. While she typically indulged in sun-soaked vacations characterized by beaches and heat, this cool retreat deepened her appreciation for a slower pace and cultural exploration.

Discovering Trondheim’s Unique Culture

Embracing the Midnight Sun

Arriving just before the summer solstice on June 17, Carnegie was mesmerized by the phenomenon known as "white nights". Trondheim, located just south of the Arctic Circle, experiences nearly continuous daylight during this season. After dining in a candlelit restaurant, she stepped outside at 11 p.m. only to be greeted by bright blue skies — an oddity for someone accustomed to darker evenings.

As her four-day stay unfolded, she struggled to adjust to the perpetual twilight. Local life thrived during these extended hours, with bars and restaurants buzzing with activity late into the night, underscoring a vibrant nocturnal energy unique to this northern city.

A Local’s Perspective

Determined to absorb Trondheim’s charm, Carnegie joined a guided walking tour, an experience that allowed her to see the city through the eyes of a local. The compact city is easily navigable on foot, making it ideal for a leisurely exploration.

She visited notable spots like the Trondheim Folkebibliotek, a library housed within the ruins of a 12th-century church, and the café Sellanraa, famous for its coffee — a nod to Norway's ranking as one of the top coffee consumers globally. Despite drizzly conditions, the city's colorful wooden houses and scenic waterfront preserved their allure.

A standout highlight was her visit to the Nidaros Cathedral, a majestic Gothic structure renowned for housing one of Northern Europe's largest church organs, comprising 9,600 pipes. The cathedral’s intricate architecture captivated her, offering a reverent glimpse into Trondheim's Viking past and spiritual heritage.

Seeking Comfort in a Traditional Sauna

A Refreshing Escape

The mild weather provided a welcome relief compared to the unrelenting heat of London. In search of a quintessential Norwegian experience, Carnegie sought out a traditional sauna, believing it would offer the heat she craved in moderation.

She booked a session at a self-service sauna situated on the Trondheimsfjorden — a popular destination for cruise ships, enhancing the local tourism appeal. Alternating between the wood-fired sauna and the inviting bracing seawater, she embraced the refreshing experience, appreciating the balance of warmth and coolness.

Shifting Travel Trends

This trip not only revitalized Carnegie’s perspective on vacations but also highlighted a growing trend among travelers. According to luxury travel network Virtuoso, there has been a significant spike in bookings for cooler European destinations, with bookings surging by 263% year over year. Norway, Iceland, and Antarctica have risen to the top of the list, as travelers increasingly seek to escape the heat in the wake of climate change.

Through her 'coolcation,' Carnegie discovered new travel philosophies — to slow down, cultivate curiosity, and not be tethered to the concept of 'good' weather. As summers across the globe become hotter and weather patterns more unpredictable, her newfound appreciation for cooler climates may shape her travel plans for years to come.